Pep Reflects on Season Struggles as Young Stars Prove Their Worth
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has opened up about his biggest regret this season—not giving his talented youngsters more playing time earlier in the campaign. Despite a recent resurgence, City’s inconsistent form has left them fighting for a top-four finish rather than defending their Premier League title.
A Season of Struggles and Reflection
The reigning champions endured a shocking mid-season slump, suffering four straight defeats in November and December before stumbling through the festive period. While they’ve steadied the ship in recent weeks—remaining unbeaten in their last six league games—Guardiola admits his loyalty to the club’s experienced stars may have cost them.
“Now I ask myself, why didn’t Nico O’Reilly play more in November, December, January? Or James McAtee?” Guardiola said ahead of City’s clash with Wolves. “I should have trusted them earlier. At the time, I thought they weren’t ready—but look at them now. They’ve shown they absolutely are.”
Youth Steps Up as Guardiola Plans for the Future
O’Reilly, 20, has been a revelation since breaking into the team, netting five crucial goals from an unfamiliar left-back role. Meanwhile, McAtee, 22, has cemented his place in midfield, proving he belongs at the highest level.
Guardiola’s shift in philosophy is clear—long-serving stars like Kevin De Bruyne (33) will depart this summer, while January signings Nico González (23), Omar Marmoush (26), and teenage talents Vitor Reis (19) and Abdukodir Khusanov (21) signal a new direction.
Lessons Learned for the Future
“This year has been a huge learning experience,” Guardiola told ESPN. “There’s never just one reason for struggles—it’s many small details, including my own mistakes. We knew a drop would come eventually, but not this steep. What we achieved over nine years was extraordinary, but now we must rebuild.”
With an FA Cup final against Crystal Palace looming and Champions League qualification within reach, City’s season could still end on a high. But Guardiola’s admission makes one thing clear: the era of relying on veterans is over—the kids are ready to take charge.
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